In the winter, the District teams typically work from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week. When a storm is forecasted, they move to a 12-hour shift rotation. High-traffic areas will generally be sanded during regular operating hours. The District teams are on-call outside regular hours and/or when a storm produces excessive accumulation.

To keep more than 6 miles of district roads clear, crews drive in excess of 150 miles for every winter snowstorm.

The District road right-of-way averages 25 feet out from each side from the centerline of the roadway, with an additional 10’ from each side of the asphalt. This area is needed for snow storage, drainage, and signage. At times, it is necessary to plow snow well off the road into the right-of-way to make room for the next storm.

Winter snow compounds parking problems for all; however, it is crucial to be aware that it is unlawful to park on district roads, including Sheol Street, and right-of-way. This is both a safety and efficiency issue; plowing your roads takes longer when snowplow drivers must work around obstructions.

Homeowners and residents should also be cautious about landscaping and placing objects in the right-of-way, which could be damaged by snowplows or plowed snow. Purgatory Metro District is not responsible for damage to landscaping or other objects that are within 10’ of the roadway or in the right-of-way. While snowplow drivers are careful to avoid contact with items in the right-of-way whenever possible, homeowners, guests of homeowners, and rental guests are solely responsible for any damage that may result when parked in the district right-of-way and obstruct snowplows. To keep quality and efficiency on our roads, please keep all vehicles, sleds, etc, 10’ off the roadways.

Homeowners are responsible for maintaining their own driveways and parking areas. The berm created at the adjoining drive is also the owner’s responsibility and cannot be avoided or maintained by the District drivers. When moving snow, do not store snow in the right-of-way. All snow that is moved should be put on private property. Also, please avoid blowing or plowing snow onto or across the District road.